Dayton School of Business

Who is Howard Dayton?

Howard Dayton’s journey from a successful career in restaurant and real estate to founding Crown Financial Ministries reflects his transformation through biblical financial principles. After a business partner challenged him to study the Bible’s teachings on money, Howard’s life was profoundly changed, leading him to share these principles through books, radio programs, and small group studies. 

In 1985, he founded Crown Ministries, which merged with Larry Burkett’s Christian Financial Concepts, becoming the world’s largest financial ministry. In 2009, he founded Compass—Finances God’s Way, focusing on teaching God’s financial principles. Howard has impacted millions through his dedication to financial discipleship. Asbury University honored his legacy by naming the Dayton School of Business after him in 2014.

Read About Howard Dayton’s Visit to Asbury.

Dayton School of Business Advisory Council

The Dayton School of Business is pleased to introduce its new Advisory Council, established to strengthen connections between Asbury University and the broader business community. Council members, leaders who share our commitment to Christ-centered values, stewardship, and social responsibility, will provide insight to support innovation, academic excellence, and professional development. Their guidance will help ensure DSB remains a vibrant leader in faith-informed business education.

So rare a find it is to have a student body so immersed in the Lord and what he desires for their future. Their curiosity is evident, their passion is clear, and their love for each other, their school, and Jesus Christ could not be more obvious."
Callie Napier the Executive Director Compass Kentucky. Callie Napier Executive Director Compass-Kentucky, Inc.
Asbury has been a place of immense spiritual and personal growth. I am so grateful for the community that pushed me to excel both in and out of the classroom. Asbury has taught me the importance of integrity and purpose-driven leadership, along with challenging me to pursue ventures outside my comfort zone. I want to thank the professors, mentors, friends, and family who supported me throughout this accelerated journey."
Hagan Web '25 Dayton School of Business, Finance, December graduate
During my time at Asbury University, I gained valuable knowledge not only in the classroom but beyond it. The sense of community there is truly unmatched. I’m excited to apply what I’ve learned at Asbury University's Howard and Beverly Dayton School of Business to the professional world. While I’m grateful to have graduated, I’m even more thankful for the growth, relationships, and experiences that came with those years."
Crosby Short '25 Dayton School of Business, December graduate
Through the guidance of the Asbury University's Howard and Beverly Dayton School of Business, I learned key business concepts and valuable life lessons that I will carry with me into both my career and personal life. Asbury is a place where I grew academically, professionally, and spiritually- and where I built friendships that will last a lifetime. I’m grateful for a community that challenged me, supported me, and shaped me into who I am today."
Lena Cundiff '25 Dayton School of Business, Marketing, December Graduate

The Walt & Rowena Shaw Collaborative Learning Center provides incredible hands-on learning and skill building opportunities for business students. Students have access to trading rooms with real-time stock market data, mock office suites and the Center for Professional Selling.

Asbury University's Center for Professional SellingAsbury University's Center for Professional Selling
The Finance Lab provides space for students and also area business leaders when they volunteer to judge the Asbury Sales Competition.
Students have the opportunity to present in a modern setting that prepares them for success.
Center for Professional selling suite entranceCenter for Professional selling suite entrance
The state of the art facility features six state of the art sales role play rooms.
Area business leaders volunteer to judge the Asbury sales competition.

News & Events

Meet our faculty

Asbury University Dayton School of Business Alesha Graves Headshot.
Alesha Graves, D.B.A., CPA
Associate Professor of Accounting
Dean, Dayton School of Business
Michelle Smith, M.S.
Associate Professor Sport Management
Department Chair, Management and Marketing
Emily Walsh ’98, D.B.A.
Associate Professor, Accounting
Department Chair, Accounting & Finance
NCAA Faculty Athletics Representative
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